William Chapman was born in Woolwich in 1872. He worked as a mechinical engineer for Thames Ironworks & Shipbuilding. He also played football for Old Castle Swifts. In 1895 Arnold Hills, the owner of the shipbuilding company decided to establish his own football team. Chapman joined the club and appeared in at least 20 games during the first season. This included three games against Barking in the West Ham Charity Cup in 1896 and the club's first F.A. Cup match against Chatham. The following season he played in just six first team matches.